The practice of publishing the matric results in the newspapers has become part of the South African tradition, with the release of the results in January every year. The original reason for this practice, is to assist learners who are on vacation away from their homes and are unable to get to their respective schools to collect their results.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is aware of the adverse effect of this practice, and therefore in the last few years, the results are first released at the school at 08h00 in the morning, and thereafter the newspapers are allowed to release the results. The results are available to the learners at school, under the supervision of the school principal.
The DBE is aware that learners that have performed poorly may respond negatively to the results, and therefore educators are on standby to counsel the learners. This practice of releasing the results in the newspapers extends beyond the last 30 years.
The DBE is always responsive to issues raised by members of the public and our social partners. This matter will be discussed at a meeting of the examination representatives from each of the provinces and other key stakeholders, to be held on, 4 and 5 October 2011. A recommendation will be made to the Director General and the Minister, in this regard.
Any practice that places the lives of our valuable charges at risk will be reviewed. Therefore, the DBE will explore this concern more intensely and ensure that the best option is followed.
Media Statement on the practice of publishing matric results in newspapers
